Saving money while living in an apartment starts with the search. You must know how and when to find an apartment to score a good deal.
There are many things to consider when hunting, but if you keep these tips in mind, you’ll find a quality apartment at a quality price!
Move-In During the Off-Season
Most people move in during the warmer months, spring through early fall. However, you can save money by moving in during the “off-season.”
Apartment communities want their vacancies filled, and winter vacancies can be hard to fill. Many properties are willing to give tenants the first (or the last) month free for moving in during the winter.
If your dream apartment community is beyond your budget during the summer, check back during the winter. After a few months of saving up money, you might find you can afford it if you move in during the winter.
The Listed Rent Is Not Final
The listed rent you see online is merely the asking price; you can always negotiate the monthly rent. If you have a good credit score and a steady income, the property management company will be more apt to consider your offer.
Research the cost of similar apartment communities; if they ask for less, show the property management team! It’s no different than showing the cashier at the store that their competitor is charging less for the same product.
Always Consider the Amenities and Their Benefit to You
Apartment communities and their amenities vary; living in a community with advantageous amenities is essential. If you work out regularly, rent from an apartment community with a quality fitness center.
Using the community’s fitness center will allow you to cancel your gym membership. If you work remotely, ensure the community offers Wi-Fi and a workspace.
When you have internet and a space to work in your apartment community, you’ll save money by not commuting to a coffee shop, restaurant, or public workspace to use their internet.
Your Monthly Rent Assumes Everything Functions
Many tenants mistakenly pay the entirety of their rent when something isn’t working. If your stove is broken and it takes two weeks for maintenance to fix it, you shouldn’t pay the total rent.
If your in-unit washer or dryer isn’t working, management should compensate you for the inconvenience of commuting to and from a laundromat and the cost of washing your clothes.
Compare Included Utilities Across Apartment Communities
Search for an apartment where utilities are included in the rent. Included utilities simplify budgeting by providing a fixed monthly cost instead of fluctuating utility bills. Additionally, you may avoid additional fees often associated with setting up utilities in a new place.
Learn more about apartment living in Greenfield in our blog!
